H.R.3441 - K2 Veterans Total Coverage Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3441, the K2 Veterans Total Coverage Act of 2025, aims to amend Title 38 of the United States Code. The amendment seeks to establish presumptions of service connection for specific diseases in veterans who experienced toxic exposure at Karshi Khanabad Air Base (K2) in Uzbekistan. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would expand the list of presumptive conditions for veterans who served at K2. This would ease the process for these veterans to receive disability and healthcare benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs. The VA would be required to recognize a service connection for the listed diseases if a veteran served at K2.
Potential Benefits
- Easier access to VA benefits for K2 veterans.
- Recognition of potential health issues related to service at K2.
- Reduced burden of proof for veterans seeking disability compensation.
- Potential increase in healthcare resources allocated to K2 veterans.
- Acknowledgment of the sacrifices and health risks faced by veterans serving at K2.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increase in VA healthcare and disability costs.
- Risk of straining VA resources if a large number of veterans file claims.
- Possible disputes over the validity of service connection for certain conditions.
- Could set a precedent for expanding presumptive conditions for other groups of veterans, potentially increasing costs further.
- May not address all health issues faced by K2 veterans, as the list of conditions is not exhaustive.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's provision for providing for the common defense and promoting the general welfare (Preamble). Congress has the power to raise and support armies (Article I, Section 8) and to provide for veterans. The bill addresses the welfare of veterans who served the nation, falling under Congress's enumerated powers.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).